Fallingwater, Mill Run, Pennsylvania (1935) In the lush forests of Pennsylvania, Fallingwater emerges as a stunning architectural marvel. At 89 years old, this house stands as a testament to Wright's genius, seamlessly blending with the waterfall over which it is constructed. Its design is a harmonious symphony of nature and architecture, where the sound of flowing water becomes an integral part of the living experience. This home is more than a structure; it's a living, breathing entity in constant dialogue with its natural surroundings.
The Robie House, Chicago, Illinois (1909) 115 years old and still turning heads, the Robie House in Chicago is a prime example of Wright's Prairie School style. Its sweeping horizontal lines and overhanging eaves give the impression that the house is embracing the earth. Inside, the open plan and flowing spaces revolutionized the way we think about interior living spaces. It's a house that doesn't just stand on the ground; it speaks to it.
Taliesin, Spring Green, Wisconsin (1911) Nestled in the rolling hills of Wisconsin, Taliesin was Wright's personal summer retreat and laboratory for architectural innovation. Now 113 years old, it stands as a deeply personal embodiment of his architectural philosophy. Fire and reconstruction have shaped its history, adding layers of complexity to this already fascinating structure. Taliesin is not just a home; it's a chronicle of Wright's evolving artistic vision.
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York City, New York (1959) Though not a residence, the Guggenheim Museum in New York, at 65 years old, is an essential part of Wright's legacy. This architectural marvel defies traditional museum designs with its unique spiral form and open atrium. Visitors experience art in a continuous flow, a physical manifestation of Wright's belief in the unity of space and structure. The building itself is as captivating as the artworks it houses.
Hollyhock House, Los Angeles, California (1921) Over a century old, the Hollyhock House is a testament to Wright's ability to incorporate personal and natural elements into his designs. Named after the owner's favorite flower, this house integrates the hollyhock motif throughout its structure, creating a unique dialogue between the building and its ornamentation. This home is a symbol of personalized architecture, tailored to the spirit of its inhabitants.
Fallingwater's Lesser-Known Sibling, Bear Run, Pennsylvania (1939) Also nestled in Bear Run, Pennsylvania, this lesser-known sibling of Fallingwater, at 85 years old, stands as a hidden gem among Wright's works. It's a quieter, more introspective counterpart to its famous sibling, offering a different perspective on Wright's architectural language. This house is a reminder of the diversity and depth in Wright's designs, each with its unique character and story.
Taliesin West, Scottsdale, Arizona (1937) Taliesin West in Arizona, Wright's winter home, is an embodiment of his belief in a living architecture that evolves with its surroundings. At 87 years old, this structure showcases Wright's ability to adapt his design philosophy to the harsh desert environment. The use of local materials and the blurring of indoor and outdoor spaces make it a home that is both of and in the landscape.
The Dana-Thomas House, Springfield, Illinois (1902) Standing for 122 years, the Dana-Thomas House boasts one of the most complete and well-preserved collections of Wright-designed interiors. With over 250 art glass doors, windows, and panels, the house is a kaleidoscope of light and color. Each room tells a story, revealing a different facet of Wright's vision for a total work of art.
The Martin House Complex, Buffalo, New York (1905) The Martin House Complex, more than a century old, is more than a single home – it's a symphony of structures, each contributing to a grand architectural composition. The complex reflects Wright's ambition not just to design houses but to create comprehensive environments. Its interconnected buildings and gardens create a holistic living experience, a microcosm of Wright's architectural ecosystem.
The Ennis House, Los Angeles, California (1924) At 100 years old, the Ennis House in Los Angeles stands out with its unique textile block system, giving it an appearance reminiscent of ancient Mayan temples. This home is a bold experiment in material and form, a testament to Wright's relentless pursuit of innovation. The Ennis House is more than just a residence; it's a monumental sculpture carved into the Los Angeles hillscape.
Each of these Frank Lloyd Wright homes offers a unique window into the mind of one of the greatest architects of the 20th century, reflecting his unending quest to redefine the way we live and interact with our surroundings.